BEAR ISLAND – What’s in a name?
A great deal if you believe in First Nation language and identity reclamation.
The Temagami First Nation has formally acknowledged the restoration of its traditional name to Teme Augama Anishinabek.
This name change was completed in a recent community ceremony during the spring equinox held at the Minowaabandan-gamiing Mawanjihidiwining Gathering Hall on Bear Island.
The event brought elders, who are the language carriers, leadership, youth and community members all reflecting on the meaning of the new name, its teachings and the responsibilities that come with carrying it forward.
Dozens of First Nations in Canada are formally changing their names to reflect indigenous names, helping to restore traditional words and revitalize their languages.
This name change was formally acknowledged through a Bear Island band council resolution.
Information in a press release said the name change is reflective of the nation’s identity as deep water people and affirms their inherent rights to self-determination and cultural reclamation.
“The transition is about harmonizing and unification – bringing governance, identity and communications into alignment. It is both a practical and spiritual step toward reclaiming identity and expressing it consistently across all areas of community life.”
Stories shared during the name change ceremony placed an emphasis on language, which is not viewed as separate from land, water or governance.
Moving forward, the Teme Augama Anishinabek leadership will use its full traditional name in all contexts and no longer rely on acronyms.
The name is being viewed as a way to normalize Anishinaabemowin in everyday life.
During the renaming ceremony a new refreshed logo was unveiled reflecting the name change.
It was created by Dan Mongrain, whose artistry is said to reflect symbolism deeply connected to the people, land and water.
The ceremony ended with reflections on the responsibility of the community, on unity and the role language plays in shaping the future.
In the near future work will be done on changing the website, rebranding and upgrades to organizational materials.
The name change is viewed as an important way for the Teme Augama Anishinabek people to live grounded in language, guided by community and committed to observing the name for generations to come.
By Sue Nielsen, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Original Published on May 13, 2026 at 08:09
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